Before setting out on our Alaska Cruise Tour, we spent some time exploring Victoria and Vancouver Island. One stop that quickly became a highlight of our pre-cruise adventure was Butchart Gardens. Known for its stunning landscapes and seasonal displays, it turned out to be one of the most colorful and peaceful experiences of our journey.
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Exploring Victoria and Vancouver Before Our Cruise
Before boarding the ship, we spent a few days diving into the character and charm of both Victoria and Vancouver. Victoria instantly won us over with its historic Inner Harbour, where the Parliament Buildings, the Fairmont Empress Hotel, and waterfront walkways set the stage for an unforgettable stay. It’s a city that invites you to slow down, wander, and take in the scenery — and that feeling carried straight into our visit to Butchart Gardens. Just a short drive from downtown, the gardens made us feel like we’d stepped into a living painting, adding a peaceful and colorful highlight to our time in Victoria.
Vancouver, on the other hand, felt alive in a completely different way. Modern, diverse, and packed with ocean views and mountain backdrops, it’s a place where you can watch seaplanes take off, wander Stanley Park, and grab some incredible sushi—all in a single day. Both cities were the perfect lead-in to our Alaska cruise: scenic, relaxing, and full of inspiration.
The History of Butchart Gardens
Butchart Gardens began as a transformation story. In the early 1900s, Jennie Butchart turned her husband’s depleted limestone quarry into a lush sanctuary of flowers. What started as a small family project has grown into a 55-acre National Historic Site of Canada, drawing over a million visitors each year. The gardens remain family-owned, ensuring Jennie’s vision continues to thrive.
Highlights of the Gardens
Each section of Butchart Gardens feels like stepping into a new world.
- The Sunken Garden – The original showpiece, with winding paths and vibrant displays that take your breath away.
- The Rose Garden – Thousands of roses in bloom during summer, filling the air with unforgettable fragrance.
- The Japanese Garden – Peaceful and serene, with arched bridges, winding paths, and koi ponds.
- The Italian Garden – Formal, elegant, and perfect for a romantic stroll.
- The Mediterranean Garden – A lesser-known gem featuring exotic plants that thrive in Vancouver Island’s mild climate.
Photography Tips at Butchart Gardens
For photographers, Butchart Gardens is a dream destination.
- Best time to shoot: Morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds.
- Gear we used: The Nikon Z 24-120mm was perfect for sweeping garden shots, while the 28-400mm lens captured close-up flower details.
- Tip: Bring extra memory cards—you’ll find yourself taking far more photos than expected.
Tips for Visiting Butchart Gardens
- Arrive early or late to enjoy fewer crowds and magical lighting.
- Check seasonal highlights: Spring tulips, summer roses, autumn foliage, and holiday lights in winter.
- Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll easily walk several miles.
- Dining options: Try the Dining Room Restaurant for a formal meal, the Blue Poppy Restaurant for casual dining, or enjoy afternoon tea.
- Stay for the evenings: Summer brings live concerts and Saturday fireworks.
Our Impressions
When I first told Lisa we were heading to some gardens, she wasn’t so sure it was her kind of thing. But the moment we started walking through the Sunken Garden, her hesitation disappeared. She loved the vibrant colors, the peaceful paths, and especially the serenity of the Japanese Garden. I found myself drawn back to the Sunken Garden overlook again and again—it was that stunning.
For us, Butchart Gardens wasn’t just about flowers. It was an experience that blended beauty, relaxation, and inspiration. What could have been “just a garden visit” turned into one of the highlights of our time on Vancouver Island.
Why Butchart Gardens is Worth the Trip
If you’re traveling through Victoria or Vancouver Island, Butchart Gardens is a must-visit. Whether you’re a gardener, photographer, or just someone who appreciates natural beauty, the gardens leave a lasting impression. For full-time RVers like us, this was a chance to step away from the road and into one of the most enchanting gardens in the world.
Final Thoughts
Butchart Gardens is one of those places that surprises you. Lisa went in hesitant, thinking it might not be her thing, and ended up loving every moment. I expected great views, but I didn’t expect to feel such a sense of calm and inspiration wandering those paths.
As part of our pre-cruise adventure before sailing to Alaska, it was the perfect way to slow down and soak in the beauty before the excitement of the journey ahead. If your travels take you anywhere near Victoria, make the time—you won’t regret it.
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